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Périgueux

L'Essentiel in Périgueux is a Michelin-starred restaurant renowned for its exceptional French cuisine, impeccable service, and charming ambiance. Guests frequently commend the restaurant for its high-quality dishes, attentive staff, and elegant setting. The menu features locally sourced ingredients, and the wine list offers a selection of fine references from various regions. The restaurant is praised for its consistency in delivering a remarkable dining experience, making it a top choice for both locals and visitors seeking a memorable meal in Périgueux.

l'essentiel in périgueux france a refined dining experience in the heart of dordogne 

Nestled at 8 Rue de la Clarté, in the picturesque town of Périgueux, L'Essentiel stands out as a Michelin-starred gem beloved by locals and travelers alike. This elegant restaurant offers a sophisticated journey into the flavors of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, combining refined French cuisine with an impressive wine list that showcases some of the finest vintages from France's most celebrated vineyards.

a unique ambience and exceptional culinary delights

L'Essentiel invites you to savor expertly crafted tasting menus that highlight local ingredients with creativity and precision. The elegant dining room, complemented by a charming courtyard garden, creates an inviting atmosphere perfect for intimate dinners or special occasions. Guests frequently praise the attentive and friendly staff, who provide impeccable service ensuring each visit feels personalized and memorable.

 featuring seasonal and local ingredients for an authentic taste of Dordogne.

 showcasing the best of French vineyards, perfect for pairing with your meal.

 providing a delightful outdoor seating experience during warm weather.

 with polite and attentive staff making every guest feel valued.

community sentiment and dining experience

Reviews from visitors and locals highlight L'Essentiel’s consistent excellence in both flavor and presentation. Many guests have described it as a must-visit dining destination in Périgueux, praising the delightful ambiance and the thoughtful wine pairings. While the cuisine impresses with its creativity, some diners have noted the pace of service can be leisurely, typical of an immersive fine dining setting. Overall, the sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, characterizing L'Essentiel as a top choice for those seeking a memorable gastronomic experience in Dordogne.

frequently asked questions about l'essentiel

What are the operating hours of L'Essentiel?

 L'Essentiel operates Tuesday to Saturday, serving lunch from 12:00 PM to 1:15 PM and dinner from 7:15 PM to 9:00 PM. Closed on Sundays and Mondays.

 Due to its popularity and intimate seating, reservations are highly recommended to guarantee a table.

Does L'Essentiel offer vegetarian or vegan options?

 While the menu focuses on French cuisine featuring local ingredients, it’s best to contact the restaurant directly to inquire about specific dietary needs.

 Parking options exist nearby, but guests should check for the most convenient and available spots, especially during busy times.

 Yes, diners can enjoy their meals in the charming courtyard garden when the weather permits.

Europe

France

Nestled in the heart of Périgueux, L'Essentiel is a culinary gem that invites you to experience the rich flavors of French cuisine. With its elegant dining room and charming courtyard garden, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers a refined atmosphere perfect for any occasion. As you step inside, the warm ambiance envelops you, setting the stage for a memorable dining experience. The restaurant is renowned for its exquisite tasting menus that showcase the best of regional ingredients, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts and travelers alike.

At L'Essentiel, the menu is a celebration of local flavors, featuring standout dishes like the tender duck breast served with a rich cherry reduction and the delicate sea bass accompanied by seasonal vegetables. Each dish is a work of art, beautifully plated and bursting with flavor. The restaurant also boasts an impressive wine list, carefully curated to complement the exquisite dishes. Guests can indulge in a glass of locally sourced wine, enhancing the dining experience with every sip.

One of the unique aspects of L'Essentiel is its commitment to sustainability and local sourcing. The chef often visits local markets to select the freshest produce, ensuring that every dish reflects the season's bounty. This dedication to quality not only enhances the flavors but also supports the local community. A fun fact: the restaurant's name, L'Essentiel, translates to "The Essential," which perfectly encapsulates their philosophy of focusing on the fundamental elements of great cooking.

L'Essentiel is known for its exquisite tasting menus that highlight the best of regional ingredients, all served in an elegant setting.

Yes, L'Essentiel offers outdoor seating in its charming courtyard garden, perfect for enjoying a meal al fresco.

L'Essentiel accepts various payment methods, including credit and debit cards.

Whether you're a local or a traveler, L'Essentiel promises an unforgettable dining experience that highlights the best of Périgueux's culinary scene. Book your table today and indulge in a meal that celebrates the essence of French cuisine.

Refined regional tasting menus & a long wine list in an elegant dining room with a courtyard garden.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNiMGVYaV9nRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJw-H10FRw_0cRP7_AShepiXc/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNiMGVYaV9nRRAB

Delicious food and wine. Very froendly owners. Children also welcome, I never saw them eat their vegetables so fast.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIM3JlMVhBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJw-H10FRw_0cRP7_AShepiXc/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIM3JlMVhBEAE

For a Michelin starred restaurant, we were pleased with the food, however we were disappointed in the service provided. For a standard 3-course meal (entrée, main, dessert), we spent a total of 3 hours at the table, as the wait for each course was very long. At our arrival, we were greeted by a waitress and our order was taken by a second older waitress. Pleasantly surprised by their wine selection, we made a few pictures of the wine menu as a remembrance and to research the wines in our own time. This second waitress noticed and harshly asked us why we were taking a picture. Following our explanation and apology (her tone implied that was she not pleased by this), we offered to delete the photos off our phones. She then replied in a cold manner, saying there was no need, but that she prefers that customers ask first, before taking pictures. We understood her point, however her tone was extremely unpleasant and nobody had told us/it wasn't indicated anywhere that pictures of the menu were not allowed. This set an awkward tone for us as customers, as we hesitated to take photos of the nicely presented dishes throughout the night, for fear of being scowled at again.
There were also a few details we noticed, such as the lack of table cloth, no individual plates for the bread (nowhere for each person to put their piece of bread, eventually needing to put it back onto the serving plate or on the table, which is a bit improper).
Although the food was good, our experience (especially in regards to the customer service) was not very pleasant overall, we will not be dining there again.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM4dlBlMnlRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJw-H10FRw_0cRP7_AShepiXc/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM4dlBlMnlRRRAB

Lovely ambience on the patio. Extremely polite staff, yet relaxed. Well worth their 1 star.
I went for the 2 course lunch (+ amuse) including wine and coffee and spent under 50e per person. Highly recommended!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN3bk5mZkR3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJw-H10FRw_0cRP7_AShepiXc/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN3bk5mZkR3EAE

After enjoying the sights and experiencing the charm of Perigueux, I had the pleasure to dine ar l'Essential on my final night there.. After having enjoyed superb cuisine in other restaurants in this delightful city, I did not expect that it would be possible that the quality and refinement I had previously experienced could be exceeded. But - l'Essential was indeed superior in every way - in terms of atmosphere, service as well as the delicious and imaginative cuisine which I enjoyed. Worthwhile going to Perigueux just to dine at this great restaurant. 10 out of 10 for everything!!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURNdG8yUkxBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJw-H10FRw_0cRP7_AShepiXc/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURNdG8yUkxBEAE

Fantastic! An absolute gem and delight for eyes and taste buds.

L'Essentiel: Elegant Dining in Périgueux, France

L'Essentiel is a Michelin-starred restaurant located in Périgueux, France, known for its exceptional French cuisine and elegant ambiance. The restaurant is helmed by Chef Éric Vidal, who has honed his skills in various esteemed establishments before establishing L'Essentiel. The establishment has garnered acclaim for its consistent delivery of high-quality dishes and attentive service, making it a notable destination for both locals and visitors seeking a memorable dining experience in Périgueux.

L'essentiel History and Culinary Journey in Périgueux France 

Nestled in the heart of Périgueux, France, L'Essentiel stands as a beacon of refined French gastronomy. Since its inception in 2010 by the talented Chef Éric Vidal, the restaurant has carved out a distinguished place in the regional culinary scene. Vidal brought with him a wealth of expertise from several prestigious kitchens, infusing L'Essentiel with a passion for exquisite flavors and meticulous craftsmanship. 

In 2015, a landmark year for L'Essentiel, the restaurant proudly earned its first Michelin star, a testament to Chef Vidal's unwavering commitment to culinary excellence. This accolade recognized the restaurant's extraordinary approach to traditional French cuisine, characterized by innovative techniques and the finest local ingredients. The Michelin star elevated L'Essentiel's reputation, making it a sought-after destination for gourmets and travelers alike.

Enhancing Guest Experience with Outdoor Ambiance

In response to growing patronage and a desire to blend exquisite dining with natural beauty, L'Essentiel expanded its outdoor seating in 2020. The addition of a charming courtyard garden provided guests with an elegant al fresco option, combining sophisticated ambiance with the tranquil allure of Périgueux's scenic surroundings. This thoughtful extension further enhanced the restaurant's appeal, offering a perfect setting for savoring its refined regional tasting menus alongside a carefully curated wine list.

A Culinary Landmark Celebrating Over a Decade

In 2023, L'Essentiel marked its 13th anniversary, a milestone highlighting its sustained success and dedication to providing memorable dining experiences. The restaurant continues to draw praise for its elegant atmosphere, imaginative dishes, and attentive service, solidifying its role as a culinary gem in Dordogne, Nouvelle-Aquitaine. Visitors to Périgueux seeking authentic French cuisine paired with an inviting setting will find L'Essentiel a must-visit destination.

 Chef Éric Vidal opened L'Essentiel in Périgueux, bringing his expertise from various esteemed establishments.

 L'Essentiel was awarded its first Michelin star, recognizing its exceptional culinary offerings.

 The restaurant expanded its outdoor seating area, adding a charming courtyard to enhance the dining experience.

 L'Essentiel celebrated its 13th anniversary, continuing to delight guests with its refined French cuisine.

Outdoor Seating

Restroom

Serves Wine

Allows Dogs

L'Essentiel is a charming restaurant in Périgueux, Dordogne, offering refined regional tasting menus and a long wine list in an elegant dining room with a courtyard garden. Perfect for food lovers!

L'Essentiel

Découvrez le menu gastronomique de L'Essentiel, mettant en avant des produits locaux et de saison, élaboré par le chef Éric Vidal.

Huîtres spéciales n°1 en fine gelée de légumes sur un crémeux de tourteaux, un tartare de langoustine, une émulsion au lait de coco

Escalope de foie gras de canard rôti, pané de pistache, tronçons de rhubarbe confite et en ketchup, poivre vert, une réduction de vinaigre et vin de banyuls

Terrine de cèpe du Périgord, servie chaude, ail et persil, la sauce champignon gratinée sous la salamandre

Filet de St Pierre snacké à la plancha, fine purée d’oignon de Roscoff, coco de Paimpol couenne et guanciale, coulis crémeux de butternut au combava

Carré d’agneau fermier label rouge, en croûte de piment doux, aubergine, tomate et courgette, pulpe de persil aillée, le jus de cuisson réduit

Fine tartelette fondante au chocolat noir Tulakalum 75%, cuite au moment, fraîcheur de poire et glace amande-safran

Soufflé chaud au praliné de noix, une glace à la noix et zeste de citron vert

Fine feuille de gavotte comme un millefeuille, crème gourmande au miel de châtaignier, figues pochées à la vanille et sorbet à la verveine

Menu 2025

L'Essentiel menu overview in périgueux france.

L'Essentiel, nestled in the heart of Périgueux, offers an exquisite gastronomic journey showcasing the finest seasonal and local ingredients, masterfully crafted by Chef Éric Vidal. Its refined regional tasting menus and extensive wine list perfectly complement the elegant setting, including a charming courtyard garden, making it a true culinary gem of Nouvelle-Aquitaine.

Huîtres spéciales n°1 en fine gelée de légumes

 on a creamy bed of crab, paired with delicate langoustine tartare and a luscious coconut milk emulsion—an oceanic overture to start your meal.

 is presented with a pistachio crust, complemented by candied rhubarb and rhubarb ketchup, accented with green pepper and a refined reduction of vinegar and Banyuls wine—luxury on a plate.

 served warm with garlic and parsley, finished under the salamander with a gratinated mushroom sauce—a comforting homage to local forest flavors.

 seared on the plancha, served with a delicate Roscoff onion purée, Paimpol beans with crackling guanciale, and a creamy butternut coulis infused with combava—elegance and freshness combined.

 crusted with mild pepper, accompanied by aubergine, tomato, and zucchini, brightened with garlicky parsley pulp and a rich reduced jus—a succulent regional specialty.

Fine tartelette fondante au chocolat noir Tulakalum 75%

, baked to order, paired with the freshness of pear and an almond-saffron ice cream for a luscious finish.

 served warm with walnut ice cream and a zest of lime offers a perfect balance of sweetness and zest.

 resembles a millefeuille with a honeyed chestnut cream, vanilla-poached figs, and refreshing verbena sorbet—a delicate and airy conclusion to your meal.

L'Essentiel boasts an impressive wine selection featuring regional and international varieties, carefully curated to enhance the flavors of each dish. Guests can also enjoy a refined cocktail menu, perfect for a pre-dinner aperitif or an elegant nightcap. Seasonal specials highlight the best local produce, demonstrating the chef’s creative flair and dedication to quality.

 highlighting local and seasonal ingredients.

 featuring local Nouvelle-Aquitaine vintages.

 perfect for al fresco dining in a charming atmosphere.

Savor authentic French cuisine at L'Essentiel in Périgueux. Discover delightful flavors in a charming atmosphere. Reserve your table today!

L'Essentiel: Charming Restaurant in Périgueux, France

Dordogne County

Une entrée, un plat (poisson ou viande) et un dessert.

Menu Gourmand en 3 plats

Une entrée, un plat (poisson), un plat (viande) et un dessert.

Menu Gourmand en 4 plats

Menu Plaisir en 3 plats

Menu Plaisir en 4 plats

L'Essentiel, located at 8 Rue de la Clarté in picturesque Périgueux, Dordogne, offers an unforgettable gourmet journey blending elegant atmosphere and creative regional cuisine. This Michelin-starred restaurant is a coveted destination for foodies, connoisseurs, and travelers seeking an authentic taste of Nouvelle-Aquitaine's culinary riches.

Discover l'Essentiel in the heart of Périgueux, France: A refined dining experience with exquisite regional flavors and a curated wine selection.

Set in a beautifully appointed dining room with a tranquil courtyard garden and outdoor seating, l'Essentiel invites guests to indulge in refined tasting menus that showcase the bounties of the region, expertly paired with an extensive wine list. The ambience is both sophisticated and welcoming, perfect for an intimate dinner or a special occasion.

Gourmet Menus Crafted for Culinary Enthusiasts

L'Essentiel's menu offerings are thoughtfully designed to deliver both creativity and balance, featuring options such as the Menu Gourmand and Menu Plaisir in 3 or 4-course formats. Diners can expect a sequence of expertly prepared dishes including starters, main courses featuring fresh fish or succulent meats, and decadent desserts that celebrate seasonal ingredients.

 - A delightful sequence including an entrée, your choice of fish or meat as the main, and a luscious dessert, priced at 72 €.

 - Elevate your dining with an extra course including both fish and meat entrees, finishing with dessert, at 92 €.

 - A refined 3-course menu perfect for savoring regional specialties, offered at 90 €.

 - The ultimate tasting experience with four courses, featuring a harmonious progression of flavors for 110 €.

Exceptional Wine Selection and Dining Experience

L'Essentiel is celebrated not only for its exquisite dishes but also for its carefully curated wine list which complements each course beautifully. Guests praise the warm yet sophisticated service, attentive staff, and the relaxed patio seating that offers a charming setting for enjoying a leisurely meal enhanced by local vintages.

Whether you are a gourmet adventurer eager to explore the flavors of Dordogne or a wine enthusiast searching for the perfect pairing, l'Essentiel promises a memorable experience where culinary artistry and hospitality meet. The restaurant welcomes diners to reserve ahead to secure a coveted table in this sought-after destination.

 available with elegant indoor and outdoor seating in a courtyard garden.

 with expert pairings to enhance your meal.

 available for enjoying fine meals in the fresh air.

 so you can bring along your four-legged friends.

Nouvelle-Aquitaine Region

Experience exquisite French cuisine and fine wine at L'Essentiel, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Périgueux. Book your table for a gourmet journey!

Savor Michelin-Star Dining at L'Essentiel, Périgueux

Discover the best dining experiences at L'Essentiel in Périgueux. Explore menus, make reservations, and enjoy fine wines like a local!

Top Tips for Dining at L'Essentiel in Périgueux

Learn about L'Essentiel, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Périgueux, known for its exceptional dishes and rich history. Join us for an unforgettable meal!

L'Essentiel: Elegant Dining in Périgueux, France

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